frozen foods versus fresh

Alternative Names
frozen versus fresh produce

Definition Certain fruits and vegetables can be frozen before retail sale to maintain flavor and prevent spoiling. Many types of fruits and vegetables come in both fresh and frozen forms. Examples include:

peas
corn
carrots
spinach
lima beans
vegetable stir-fry mixes
blueberries
strawberries
raspberries
peaches

Information

The technology to freeze certain foods provides the shopper with more food choices. Out of season produce can be available throughout the year. Producers also are able to transport and store foods without them spoiling. Food scientists can measure the nutrient content of different foods. Foods are analyzed for various minerals, vitamins and fiber. Studies that have compared frozen produce to fresh produce show that in most cases the frozen fruits and vegetables retain their nutrients.

A quick-freeze technique is used to freeze produce. This process preserves the food's nutrients. When fresh fruits and vegetables are exposed to light and air, the vitamins in the food break down over time. Fresh produce that has been sitting on the shelf long past its harvest date may actually be lower in nutrients than food that is frozen immediately after picking. The highest levels of nutrients can be found in fresh fruit and vegetables that are in season. Otherwise, frozen varieties are a good choice. Using frozen produce is a great way to get a wide variety of important fruits and vegetables into a balanced diet.

Author:Clare Armstrong, MS, RD
Date Written:02/26/00
Medical Review:Lisle Whitman, MD
Date Written:9/14/2006
Reviewer:Walt Larimore, MD
Date Reviewed:10/7/2006
Contributors
Potential conflict of interest information for reviewers available on request